Empress of Dirt

2026 Fall Hummingbird Migration (Canada & United States)

Melissa J. Will — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 17:46:37 +0000

Discover when hummingbirds begin their solo fall migration from Canada and the US, and what to expect as these tiny birds head south to their wintering grounds.

August Garden Checklist: Tasks & DIY Projects

Melissa J. Will — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 15:45:22 +0000

August is our time to savor summer—harvesting, crafting, and soaking it in—while also preparing the garden for fall vegetables and planting for the year ahead.

How to Pinch Zinnias for More Blooms

Melissa J. Will — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 17:25:58 +0000

Pinching young zinnias encourages more stems, buds, and blooms for fuller plants. Learn when to do it and why this simple step makes a big difference.

Midsummer Garden Tasks: What To Do Before Fall

Melissa J. Will — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 17:36:27 +0000

With early summer behind us, midsummer is ideal for garden upkeep and fall prep. Priorities include watering, seed sowing, taking cuttings, composting, and pest control.

Growing Softwood Cuttings: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Melissa J. Will — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 20:45:49 +0000

Use softwood cuttings to propagate new plants from favorite annuals and perennials. Includes recommended plants and detailed step-by-step instructions.

10 Vegetables That Grow in Winter (if You Start in Summer)

Melissa J. Will — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:17:41 +0000

Many vegetables can be grown outdoors in winter, even in cold climates. Success comes down to choosing the right crops, starting on time, and using protection like frost cloths or cold frames.

How to Grow Zinnia From Cuttings

Melissa J. Will — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:11:56 +0000

Growing zinnias from stem cuttings is an easy propagation method to get new plants. The cuttings can be rooted in water and will be ready for planting in just a few weeks.

How To Save Tomato Seeds (Easy Tutorial)

Melissa J. Will — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 16:29:23 +0000

Use this traditional method to collect seeds from ripe tomatoes for future sowing. Heirloom and open-pollinated types are most reliable, but the process works for any tomato, including hybrids.

How To Sprout Ginger Root (& Indoor Growing Tips)

Melissa J. Will — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 20:37:50 +0000

Want to grow ginger root from the grocery store? Follow this step-by-step guide to propagate rhizomes at home and successfully grow your own ginger plant.

17 Flower Seeds to Sow Midsummer in June & July

Melissa J. Will — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 21:22:22 +0000

There's still time to grow flowers this season. Sow fast-growing annuals like marigolds, calendula, and zinnias for blooms before frost.